Accessibility guidance

Connecting libraries and adult literacy to inspire new readers

The Vital Link is run by The Reading Agency in partnership with the National Literacy Trust

The Vital Link improvement programme: accessibility guidance

Do potential library users know where you are - and how much do they actually know about your library and its services?
Could you be putting them off by the kind of language you use or by your library regulations - or maybe staff and users' attitudes are getting in the way?
If learners are not coming to the library, how can you get your message out to them?

You can make your library more accessible by removing some of the barriers (real and imaginary) which prevent people from using your services.

Accessibility covers a wide range of issues:

Physical and perceptual barriers
- Location of library and availability of transport
- The library building: physical barriers inside and out
- Layout including signage
- Use of non-stigmatising language
- Too much choice

Administrative barriers
- Membership requirements
- Opening hours
- Charges
- Loan limits
- Borrowing restrictions

Checklist - Are your services accessible?

Attitudinal barriers
- Staff attitudes
- Attitudes of other users
- Learners' attitudes

Awareness barriers
- Learners
- Tutors

Outreach
- Publicity
- Taking stock/services outside the library
- Special events and activities
- Wider partnerships